Getting out your wallet at the end of a salon or spa service can be downright ugly. Between the person who actually performed the service you needed and the supporting players, who might include anyone from the shampooer, blow dryer, wax assistant or receptionist, you might feel like Daddy Warbucks handing out all that cash. So who gets a tip when you have your hair done, bits waxed or any other service intended to make you pretty? And how much do they get? Unfortunately, it really depends on a lot of factors, including salon policies, the quality of service and the team effort. The general rule is to tip your main service provider, whether she’s a waxer, esthetician, manicurist, hair stylist or other, 15 to 20 percent, based on the quality of service. Most stylists report that a good haircut tends to deliver on the 20 percent side, but check into industry standards first. In-demand stylists or those who have gone out of their way to help you (think color correction, etc.) may deserve a higher tip. What about all those other “assistants”? Don’t assume the main service provider will split her tips. Go ahead and be prepared to shell out $3-$5 for a shampoo, blow dry, shoulder massage, etc.

And if you see the salon or spa owner, it’s generally the industry standard not to tip her. However, you may want to ask the receptionist before stiffing the owner – some do accept tips. It never hurts to offer a reward for a job well done, so hand over the cash, and if it’s not accepted, then that’s OK. If you’re using a coupon, gift card, Groupon or other discount, then it’s customary to tip for the full price of the service, not what you paid. For example, if a manicure costs $20 and you pay with a gift card worth that amount, then you should still tip up to $4 or more, depending on the service. When you’re not sure how much to tip, there’s an app for that. If you have a smartphone, you can tally the tip with any of the free apps that are out there quickly and easily.